State and Counties Aim to Standardize Fiber Deployment Fees

The National Government and regional administrations are working to unify fees levied on telecom firms deploying fiber optic networks nationwide, aiming to reduce connectivity expenses and speed up the nation’s digital advancement.
This matter took center stage at the Second ICT Sector Intergovernmental Consultative Forum, convening national and county leaders to address obstacles hindering digital infrastructure growth and technology access.
The gathering, joined by Information, Communications and the Digital Economy Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo, evaluated advancements from prior resolutions and targeted areas needing cooperative action from both government tiers.
A primary issue raised was the inconsistent wayleave fees imposed by counties, which industry representatives view as a barrier to broadening fiber optic coverage.
Wayleave charges represent payments made by telecommunications providers to regional governments for authorization to lay infrastructure along public roadways and designated zones.
Attendees debated the necessity for a standardized structure to remove discrepancies, lower deployment expenses, and stimulate increased private sector commitment within the telecom sector.
Furthermore, they urged improved alignment between county development agendas and national ICT network initiatives to guarantee that connectivity integrates into local growth strategies.
The assembly also considered suggestions to designate communication towers as vital national infrastructure, anticipating enhanced security and steadier communication networks.
Cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and the progression of the Kenya National Digital Master Plan 2022–2032 held significant focus during the talks.
Attendees highlighted the necessity of bolstering partnerships between national and regional authorities as the nation broadens its digital economy and enhances access to tech-enabled public services.
The management of digital hubs across the nation formed another priority, with authorities striving to ensure investments yield tangible benefits for communities, especially the youth.
The session additionally assessed the deployment of the Digital Maturity Index, an evaluation instrument created by the Council of Governors and partners to gauge regional digital progress.
This index aims to assist regional administrations in pinpointing deficiencies within their digital frameworks, evaluating technological readiness, and establishing priority investment sectors.
Evaluations have concluded in Kisumu and Turkana counties, while ongoing assessments take place in Kitui, with Murang’a scheduled for evaluation in November.
Authorities and partners plan to roll out the assessment across all 47 counties, utilizing the results to direct regional digital strategies and refine resource distribution for ICT endeavors.
This effort arrives as the country strives to deepen digital inclusion, broaden broadband availability, and enhance technology integration for public service delivery.
Kabogo noted that the dialogues offered a chance for both government levels to evaluate past pledges, establish practical steps, and improve teamwork in overcoming sector hurdles.
He stressed that the realization of the nation’s digital strategy relies heavily on robust cooperation between national and regional authorities.
Co-chairing the event was Wesley Rotich, head of the Council of Governors ICT Committee and co-chair of the intergovernmental assembly.
Additional attendees featured ICT and Digital Economy Principal Secretary John Tanui, Broadcasting and Telecommunications Principal Secretary Stephen Isaboke, ICT Authority CEO Jesse Maruti, and Konza Technopolis Development Authority CEO John Paul Okwiri, alongside diverse high-ranking officials and industry participants.
The meeting agreed to pivot focus toward executing the settled proposals, with both government tiers committed to closer alignment in resolving infrastructure, regulatory, and technical hurdles.
This drive for enhanced partnership arises as dependable and cost-effective digital connectivity proves increasingly vital for economic expansion, market competitiveness, innovation, and government service availability.
To fully capitalize on prospects in artificial intelligence, digital commerce, and the broader tech sector, experts emphasize that the nation must tackle infrastructure rollout expenses while ensuring connectivity reaches past major cities.